Rotorua is a region that is blessed with a rich and diverse history which must be discovered first hand. Below are some of our recommendations on how best to experience history of the Rotorua.

Rotorua Museum

The Rotorua Museum is located in the central city and is an excellent place to start your exploration of Rotorua’s history. Rotorua has a rich history as a world class spa town and the Rotorua Museum itself is housed in the famous old bath house building. In addition to the ever-changing temporary exhibitions, the museum has many fixed exhibition celebrating Rotorua’s history. One of the highlights is an interactive simulator of the 1886 Tarawera Eruption.

Lake Tarawera Tour

The Tarawera and Lakes Tour with Rotorua Duck Tours is your opportunity to get up close to the beauty of the Rotorua lakes while gaining insights into their historical significance to the local people. The amphibious tour starts in the heart of Rotorua before heading into the lakes district where you will splashdown into lakes Okareka, Tarawera and Tikitapu. Your tour guide will share their knowledge about the history of area, including the devastating Tarawera Eruption. The Tarawera and Lakes Tour runs every day (except Christmas Day) and is suitable for the whole family.

Buried Village of Te Wairoa

The Buried Village of Te Wairoa is one of New Zealand’s most visited historical sites. Te Wairoa was a village established on the edge of Lake Tarawera that was buried by ash and mud in the 1886 Eruption of Mt Tarawera. Visitors to the Buried Village of Te Wairoa will enjoy exploring the village with its wide, sealed paths and information boards. With the walking paths, museum and archaeological site. A visit to Buried Village of Te Wairoa will leave you feeling culturally and historically enriched.